SALISBURY, M.D. — Perdue Farms recently made two executive appointments focusing on leadership in the areas of sustainability and live production. Steve Levitsky was named vice-president of sustainability, while Mike Levengood was named to the new position of vice-president, chief animal care officer and farmer relationship advocate for Perdue Foods L.L.C.

Steve Levitsky, v.p. of sustainability for Perdue Farms

Mr. Levitsky joins Perdue from American Sugar Refining Inc. in Baltimore, where he was director of corporate sustainability and helped create and implement a global sustainability program. In his new role at Perdue, he will be responsible for advancing the company’s progress in achieving sustainable growth, fostering working relationships with a broad-spectrum of stakeholders at the federal, state and local level, and serving as Perdue’s spokesperson on sustainability and environmental matters.

Mr. Levitsky holds a bachelor’s of science degree in environmental resource management, a master’s degree in business administration, and he completed graduate degree soil science classes to obtain soil scientist certification. All of his degrees are from Pennsylvania State University.

Mike Levengood, v.p., chief animal care officer and farmer relationship advocate for Perdue Foods L.L.C.

Mr. Levengood has spent 31 years working for Perdue. In his role as chief animal care officer and farmer relationship advocate, Mr. Levengood will manage and ensure compliance with Perdue’s poultry welfare and biosecurity programs. He also will be responsible for advancing relationships with Perdue’s contract poultry growers.

“We’re pleased to welcome Steve to Perdue,” said Jim Perdue, chairman. “His breadth of experience and proven performance in aligning business strategy to sustainability opportunities make him an excellent choice to advance our commitment to growing our company sustainably, enhancing our reputation as a responsible corporate citizen and living up to our commitment to being responsible stewards of the natural resources we use.” 

Mr. Levengood joined Perdue as a flock adviser working with farm families, the company noted. He serves on the board of the U.S. Poultry and Egg Association and is a past chairman of the National Chicken Council Growout Committee. He still serves on the committee in an advisory role. Mr. Levengood has a bachelor’s degree in agricultural business management from Pennsylvania State University.